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(as) bright as a (new) button
01
used to refer to someone who is intelligent or sharp enough to quickly understand things
What is the origin of the idiom "bright as a button" and when to use it?
The phrase "bright as a button" is believed to have emerged in the English language during the 19th century or earlier. The phrase likely arose from a combination of the qualities associated with buttons and the metaphorical use of brightness to describe intelligence or mental sharpness. This association may have been applied metaphorically to describe someone who is mentally sharp, alert, and quick-thinking. The phrase "bright as a new button" conveys the idea of freshness, vigor, and brilliance in one's intellect.
Example
At just twelve years old, she's already as bright as a button.
Even in her old age, Grandma's mind remains as bright as a new button.
At just twelve years old, she's already as bright as a button.
He's as bright as a button.
She's only six years old, but she's bright as a button.
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